PADDY WALLACE has established himself as Ireland's back-up out-half over the past season, scoring 43 points in five games including a 26-point haul against the Pacific Islanders last November on his first full start.

Wallace, an attack-minded back who can play at number 10, 12 or 15, has been in Ireland senior squads since 2002 but only as his debut as a replacement against South Africa last November.

Born in Belfast, he was educated at Mike Gibson's old school Campbell College and holds a degree in business studies and marketing from UCD. Wallace has been with Ulster since 2001 and although an out-half, he found David Humphreys as first choice with the province so he became a utility back.

He has played for Ireland at Under-19, Under-21, 'A', Sevens and senior levels. In undoubtedly one of his best performances in an Irish jersey, he scored 20 points against the All Blacks in an 'A' international at Ravenhill in 2001.

Along with Brian O'Driscoll and Donncha O'Callaghan, he was a member of the Irish team that won the Under-19 FIRA/World Youth Championship in France in 1998. He helped his club side Ballymena win the AIB League Divison One title in 2003.